Monitoring of heavy metals in some desert plants south of Basra province, Iraq

Abstract

This study analyzes heavy metal concentrations in desert plants from two sites in Basra Province, Iraq, providing vital insights into environmental contamination. Heavy metals were examined across the sites to understand variability. Cadmium showed consistent levels while cobalt exhibited moderate differences, indicating uneven distribution. Manganese was prevalent but highly variable. Nickel remained stable. Lead demonstrated consistent concentrations and zinc showed substantial presence and variability. These findings inform environmental assessments and management approaches. Variability between sites and plant species highlights the influences of local factors and physiological traits. Erodium glaucophyllum, Diplotaxis harra, and Astragalus spinosa displayed distinct accumulation capacities. Soil characteristics also differed, elucidating ecological dynamics. This research advances the understanding of heavy metal accumulation patterns in Iraqi desert flora, aiding strategies for conservation and contamination mitigation.